SIPTU workers back strike ballot on Aer Lingus privatisation plans
Aer Lingus workers may now go on strike if moves to privatise the airline go ahead after a two-hour meeting of Aer Lingus employees was held last night at the airline's headquarters
The 300 SIPTU staff members voted in favour of balloting next week on whether or not to take industrial action in the event of changes in work conditions.
The staff, mainly catering, security, baggage handling and cleaners, fear there will be widespread job cuts if privatisation goes ahead.
They are also concerns over the €350m pensions shortfall that seems likely if the Government sell its majority stake in the airline.
The Minister for Transport, Martin Cullen, advised SIPTU members to meet with the Aer Lingus chief executive Dermot Mannion to discuss the implications of privatisation.
But last night, members decided against Mr Mannion speaking at the meeting.
Following the meeting, SIPTU national secretary Michael Halpenny said a protective ballot will be held in case of any enforced changes.
SIPTU members at Shannon are due to meet on Monday.
